Welcome to Bark Out Loud

Mod_Hilary:   @LorieAHuston OK, I'll start. Q1: Why is dental care important? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A1. Bad teeth can be extremely painful and can also cause systemic disease, like kidney and heart disease. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston;   A1-b. Keeping the teeth healthy can prevent those things. #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   Is it the bacteria from gums that make the other problems if you don't brush? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @tacrabtree Yes, partly. Maybe we can move on to Q2 and I'll answer that a little more completely. #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Q2 What kinds of dental disease are seen in dogs? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A2-a. Gingivitis and periodontal disease are the two most common types of dental disease. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A2-b. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. The gums will be red and inflamed with gingivitis. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A2-c. Periodontal disease is disease of the bone surrounding the tooth. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A2-d. Periodontal disease especially can be painful when present #barkoutloud

kindcutesteve:   are any dog foods or treats better than others in preventing dental disease #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Can't periodontal disease also cause tooth loss and bone erosion? #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Periodontal more serious than gingivitis? #barkoutloud

Mod_Hilary:   @kindcutesteve We're getting to that; it's a popular question! #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Yes, absolutely. RT @Keeping_Awake: Can't periodontal disease also cause tooth loss and bone erosion? #barkoutloud

Mod_Hilary:   So, that brings us to Q3: What are some of the reasons for bad breath in dogs beyond gum disease? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A3-a. Ulcers (sores) on the tongue or gums can cause bad breath #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A3-b. Tumors or growths in the mouth can cause odor #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A3-c. Kidney disease can cause uremia (a build-up of nitrogen products in the blood stream) and cause bad breath. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A3-d. Pneumonia, in my experience, can also cause a foul odor from the mouth #barkoutloud

Mod_Hilary:   Q3/A3 Can stomach issues also cause bad breath? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Occasionally, licking of impacted anal glands can give temporart bad breath, too. #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @LorieAHuston wow interesting about pneumonia = bad breath connect - why do you suppose? #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Really, how many of us have dogs with gr8 smelling breath? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   yes, good point. especially if there's vomiting. RT @Mod_Hilary: Q3/A3 Can stomach issues also cause bad breath? #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   My senior dog 17 almost 18 is having bad teeth, gum problems, bad breathe -b/c of age vet: antibiots only to try to help, #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   So, how do we decide if the odor is out of the ordinary? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   There's bad breath and then there's BAD BREATH. RT @turtlelady81: Really, how many of us have dogs with gr8 smelling breath? #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   my question is would you concur with seniors that's about all you can do? Antibiotics to control infection? #barkoutloud

WedgewoodPetRx:   @LorieAHuston aren't there connections between dental health and heart health? #barkoutloud

Mod_Hilary:   @LorieAHuston Q3/A3 If no ulcers or sores, or anything you described, are present, what could bb be caused by? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   If in doubt, have the teeth examined by vet. RT @turtlelady81: So, how do we decide if the odor is out of the ordinary? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @tacrabtree Depends on the dog's health otherwise #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @LorieAHuston Really, I'm not sure... one dog has kinda bad breath...don't know if it's sever or not. #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   If you need to turn your head away, I'd definitely see a vet! #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   is gum disease in dogs ever viral in origin? #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   RT @LorieAHuston: There's bad breath and then there's BAD BREATH.You know it's bad when other dog licks mouth of senior dog! #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @tacrabtree if healthy enough to undergo anesthesia/sedation, would have more options #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Foreign body in the mouth can also cause bad breath #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Yes, very much so. RT @WedgewoodPetRx: @LorieAHuston aren't there connections between dental health and heart health? #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   @LorieAHuston - she is not so that's why they just use the antibiotics to make her more comfy - guess that really is all I can do #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Hmm..not sure about that one. RT @ComfyPaws: is gum disease in dogs ever viral in origin? #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   A3 - So if bad breath we should be concerned? Or, if only really, really bad breath? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Yes. RT @Keeping_Awake: Foreign body in the mouth can also cause bad breath #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Q4 Next question: What can be done at home to keep the gums and teeth healthy? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Sorry if this is coming up. But why don't more vets ask about your home dental care? Before there is an issue? #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @LorieAHuston so you rx antibiotics prior to dental surgery like my dentist did? He said to protect the heart #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @turtlelady81 A dental exam should be part of the routine annual or semiannual vet check. Ask if your vet doesn't address it. #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @LorieAHuston Foreign body... like... #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @turtlelady81 Should be concerned if bad breath is more than just "doggy breath". #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @turtlelady81 Foreign bodies like sticks, bones, anything that can get stuck in mouth #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   RT @turtlelady81: @LorieAHuston Foreign body... like... unchewed food? #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   That's what I was thinking too. RT @tacrabtree: RT @turtlelady81: @LorieAHuston Foreign body... like... unchewed food? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @ComfyPaws There's debate about antibiotics prior to dental surgery. Some do, some don't. #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Any bitch you plan to breed should have her teeth checked/cleaned before the breeding. Don't want to pass infection biting cords. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @tacrabtree Unchewed food should be easily removed by brushing #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @LorieAHuston I think there is a similar debate in hooooman denistry - I took 'em tho #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Q4 What can be done at home to keep the gums and teeth healthy? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A4-a. Home care is primarily for dogs with healthy, pain-free mouths or following treatment of existing dental problems. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A4-b. Tooth brushing is the gold standard and the most effective. The brush should have soft bristles and fit the mouth well #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A4-c. Dental protectants like Oravet can be used to coat and protect the teeth. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A4-d. Chews like rawhide, hooves and Greenies can be used cautiously. Also raw veggies or fibrous meat #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A4-e. Chew toys like Kongs also help to keep the teeth clean #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A4-f. There are rinses and water treatments that can be used as well. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A4-g. Various commercial dental diets are available and may help to some degree #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A4-i. Don't just start brushing the teeth for a dog that has dental disease. It will be painful. See your vet first #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   A4I have a brush and a finger brush for my dogs. Both ok? Also, Antlers ok to chew? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   I see many raw feeders say that brushing is unnecessary but I don't agree. Your thoughts? #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @Keeping_Awake I think it depends on what and how much. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake I think that brushing is beneficial, even on raw diets. #barkoutloud

Mod_Hilary:   Q4/A4 I can vouch for the OraVet and water treatments as my dog has bad teeth; those treatments slow down problems. #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Right, won't accept brushing if mouth is painful! #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @Keeping_Awake Even tho I feed raw and bone, one dog still has a bit of tarter on bottom incisors #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @DaisyWunderDog Yes, both brushes okay. We'll talk about antlers and other such products in a bit #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   may be jumping ahead, but lab is easy to clean, how do u clean the jowls of hound? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @LorieAHuston Thanks, I think so too. you need to get under the gum line and only brushing does that thoroughly. #barkoutloud

Mod_Hilary:   A4/Q4 What do you think are the best treats for dogs in general, to help keep disease at bay? Smaller than bones, I mean. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Mod_Hilary I like Greenies personally. But only for dogs that chew them, not the gulpers #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @LorieAHuston How about the cat version of greenies? Too small? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @tacrabtree Ahh..okay. Cleaning jowls? With a towel or other dishrag, something soft and absorbent #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   What frequency of brushing is recommended? See many different ones. I do daily brushing. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @turtlelady81 Would stick with the Greenies made for the size dog. Cat greenies for small dogs only #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   @LorieAHuston - when I did the DNA test with the brush inside the hound's mouth. It was so full of junk,rub w/ towel, it out? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake I recommend daily brushing altho there are others that recommend twice daily #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake In the end, it usually comes down to what the owner can manage (i.e. how often they can brush) #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @tacrabtree Yep. Wet down the towel and swab it #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   RT @LorieAHuston: @Keeping_Awake I recommend daily brushing - with what product w/brush? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @LorieAHouston thanks, We'll step it up to 2x per day. Can't hurt! #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   I find if I associate brushing with something else we do every day, like her long walk, I don't forget it. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake I usually figure brushing can't hurt but can certainly help. #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   Ha he'll love that!! OK will do! RT @LorieAHuston: @tacrabtree Yep. Wet down the towel and swab it #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   Ok Dumb question, but my bro's dog always had a dab of toothpaste in morning (since puppy) had perfect teeth until the end-related? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @tacrabtree I use Petrodex brush and paste. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake Good advice, associating brushing with daily activity. Can also make brushing more pleasurable for the dog #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @DaisyWunderDog You mean your bro brushed the teeth each morning or just gave the toothpaste to swallow? #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   @Keeping_Awake ok thanks, can we use human toothpaste? they all love that #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @DaisyWunderDog The enzymatic toothpastes will provide some partial benefit without the brushing, but not as good as with brushing. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @DaisyWunderDog I think probably minimal benefit from toothpaste if not actually brushing. #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   Q5: My vet talked about an oral ATP or COHAT. What is he/she talking about? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A5-a. ATP stands for assessment, treatment and prevention. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A5-b. COHAT stands for comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A5-c. ATP and COHAT are essentially the same procedure. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A5-d. Basically, ATP/COHAT involves sedation and examination of the mouth and teeth #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A5-e. The teeth are cleaned, the pockets between the gums and teeth are probed and measured. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A5-f. Often, x-rays of the teeth are part of the ATP or COHAT also. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A5-g. Once the evaluation is complete, a treatment plan is established. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A5-h. Treatment will address any dental disease found during exam and establish an ongoing home care program. #barkoutloud

tacrabtree:   while sedated do they clean teeth? RT @LorieAHuston: A5-f. Often, x-rays of the teeth are part of the ATP or COHAT also. #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @LorieAHuston So this considered preventative care? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Yes. RT @tacrabtree: while sedated do they clean teeth? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Can be preventive, often leads to a treatment plan RT @turtlelady81: @LorieAHuston So this considered preventative care? #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @LorieAHuston Optimally done early on b/f problems arise? #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   Q5/A5 How often should these procedures be done? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Yes, but also on a regular basis with dental dz RT @turtlelady81: @LorieAHuston Optimally done early on b/f problems arise #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Had a question come up about human toothpaste w/o the #barkoutloud tag. Think should be addressed.

LorieAHuston:   At least annually. Maybe more often if disease present.RT @FangShuiCanines: Q5/A5 How often should these procedures...? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake Human toothpaste is not usually recommended because it can cause intestinal upset for some dogs. #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   A 5 I wonder if any of us are doing this with our dogs? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @LorieAHuston Annually if vet feels no disease present from exam without sedation? #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @turtlelady81 I have to admit I don't annually - just check teeth in depth if dog is anesth. for something #barkoutloud

SuSiempre:   No foaming toothpaste, please. Bad for kids to swallow. Bad for pets to swallow. #Malt #Chicken #Beef #DontThoseSoundDelish? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake Yes, at least a look at the mouth during the regular visit to see if additional cleaning, treatment indicated. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake Not every young dog will need ATP annually but should at least be evaluated. #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @LorieAHuston Thanks. We check teeth every 6 mos, have not needed sedation yet, dog now 8 and daily brushing #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Q 6 Is chewing on bones healthy for the teeth? What about sticks and other hard objects? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A6-a. Bones are controversial. They can help clean the teeth but can also cause problems #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A6-b. Potential problems include broken teeth and bone fragments causing intestinal foreign bodies, choking or esophageal blockage #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A6-c. Choking and esophageal blockage can also occur with rawhides, cow hooves and similar products. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A6-d. Sticks (i.e. from trees, etc) can splinter and cause sores in the mouth and intestinal foreign bodies. #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   A-6 I know a vet told me the hard bones with peanut butter or beef inside can chip a dog's teeth #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A6-e. Other extremely hard objects can also cause broken teeth but can keep a dog engaged and entertained. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A6-f. Weigh the benefits against the risks and decide what is tolerable for you. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A6-g. Bones, rawhides, hooves, etc. are best given to dogs that chew/gnaw rather than those that gulp. #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   @LorieAHuston Vet also told me that hooves were really bad. Are antlers too hard? #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   RT @LorieAHuston: A6-f. Weigh the benefits against the risks and decide what is tolerable for you. < ~ great answer #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   and all these chew toys need supervision from owner! #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   So agree! RT @Keeping_Awake: and all these chew toys need supervision from owner! #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Does it make a difference if the dog has been "raised " on bones? #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   steamed hooves splinter - I found out walking across the carpet in my bare feet #barkoutloud

dancingdogblog:   My dog gulps RT @LorieAHuston: A6-g. Bones, rawhides, hooves, etc. r best given 2 dogs that chew/gnaw rather than those that gulp. #barkoutloud

gooddogz:   Wondering if breeds, or shape of dog's mouth more prone to dental probs. My narrow headed Collie has a lot of tarter #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @DaisyWunderDog I would consider antlers hard and with the risk for complications. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Yes, I agree with you. RT @Keeping_Awake: and all these chew toys need supervision from owner! #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   if feeding bones remember to use raw bones not steamed or boiled #barkoutloud

SuSiempre:   @LorieAHuston #A6c #WeOnlyRecommend #CETChews #RawhidesMadeForDentalCare #SingleLayer #Digestable #OtherRawhidesCanDoSeriousDamage #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   @gooddogz I don't know if related, but Shelties (maybe Collies too?) are prone to dental issues #barkoutloud

EcoPets:   @ComfyPaws @LorieAHuston We advise matching the right bone w/ dog. Power chewers shouldn't do bones, nor big dogs little bones #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   OK. Thx! RT @LorieAHuston: @DaisyWunderDog I would consider antlers hard and with the risk for complications. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Not really as far as the danger of complications. RT @turtlelady81: Does it make a difference if the dog has been raised on bones? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @ComfyPaws Yes, I think dental disease may be more prevalent in some breeds than others. Greyhounds seem to have really bad mouths. #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @EcoPets I feed my power chewers raw bones ... never rawhides, etc #barkoutloud

gooddogz:   @DaisyWunderDog yes, I have known lots of Shelties needing early intervention #barkoutloud

jsk9:   I've heard that many small dogs have "bad" teeth. Is that true, is it nature or nurture? #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @LorieAHuston ugh! have seen the teeth on rescued Greys - yikes! #barkoutloud

gooddogz:   @LorieAHuston and thus my long narrow skull theory holds water! #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @LorieAHuston So, if you're willing to accept the risk, you can start an old dog out on raw bones? #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   Those Greys off the track have pretty bad diets, I've heard, and possibly subclinical distemper #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   Wonder if it matters that greyhounds haven't always had the best treatment in their early years? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @LorieAHouston Would you advise bitches planned for breeding have a dental check/cleaning prior to breeding? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @jsk9 Yes, that is true and I'm not sure if it's nature or nurture. Maybe both #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @turtlelady81 Yes, if you wanted to #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Seems as though a lot of toy breeds have poor dentition and also dental disease. Not sure if that is breed or care? #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @FangShuiCanines yeah I think that contributes #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   Jasper (Sheltie) already started showing some build up and he's only 1! So, bought tooth brushing kit. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake Yes, bitches should be healthy before breeding. That means a healthy mouth too #barkoutloud

Jessica_Schulte:   @LorieAHuston hmmm. recommend anything special for sm. dog folks to help thwart teeth decay, tartar etc? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Jessica_Schulte Regular brushing starting early in life. Regular vet checks #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   Q7: Is damage done to teeth from distemper progressive and lifelong? What else can have this impact? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A7-a. Distemper can cause defects in the enamel of the teeth and other abnormalities like tooth impaction and partial eruption #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A7-b. Enamel defects will appear as discolored teeth or teeth with a “pitted” surface. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A7-c. Distemper damaged teeth will be permanently weaker and more prone to additional disease if not treated. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A7-d. High fever, malnutrition, heavy parasite infections can cause similar enamel defects. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A7-e. Some drugs, such as tetracycline, given to puppies can cause discoloration of the teeth. #barkoutloud

fearfuldogs:   My cockers need cleanings at least 2x year. Border collies never! #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   In humans too!@LorieAHuston: A7-e. Some drugs, such as tetracycline, given to puppies can cause discoloration of the teeth #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @fearfuldogs Interesting! Wonder why? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @fearfuldogs yes, some dogs need more dental care than others. #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   One of my BCs has terrible teeth. RT @turtlelady81 @fearfuldogs Interesting! Wonder why? #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @LorieAHuston an individual thing like with people? #barkoutloud

jsk9:   @LorieAHuston since dogs don't have amylase in saliva, will eating carbs lead to tartar build up? #barkoutloud

dancingdogblog:   @LorieAHuston A-7c so need to check often for problems, brush daily - any preferred dog toothpaste? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @turtlelady81 @fearfuldogs My guess is a combination of genetics, diet, the individual dog's habit (i.e. chewer or not) #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @dancingdogblog Choose one made for dogs versus people. Lots of flavors available. Find one your dog likes if you can. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @turtlelady81 I'm not aware that dog's eating a high carb diet have more problems than those that do not. #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   Q8: What are some of the new advances in dental care? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @dancingdogblog I've done well with Petrodex, which has 6 flavors. but many dog toothpastes readily available #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A8-a. Many of the same procedures done in people are now available in dogs also. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A8-b. Root canals, capping the teeth, braces to improve dentition are all possible. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A8-c. Implants will likely be possible in the future. #barkoutloud

fearfuldogs:   Nutritionist recommended tinctures of myrr & thyme 4 gum disease #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Braces? Oh my. #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @dancingdogblof probably best to find a dog toothpaste your dog likes. Mine thinks it is a treat! #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Q9. What should be done about broken teeth? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A9-a. Broken teeth should be evaluated to determine whether the pulp cavity is exposed. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A9-b. An exposed pulp cavity will cause infection and the tooth will decay. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   A9-c. These teeth are painful and should be treated or extracted. # #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   @LorieAHuston Braces? Really? Dogs tolerate them? #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @dancingdogblog She hated the Hartz pastes, and she is really food-motivated, so they don't seem like easy winners. #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @FangShuiCanines no caps or braces if your dog is going to be shown #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   Had a doggie client chip tooth and she had root canal on canine incisor #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Makes sense as mislaigned bites cause other issues. @turtlelady81: Braces? Oh my. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @FangShuiCanines Personally, I think braces are a little over the top, but vet dentists can do them and some people want them :-) #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Right, disqualifies @ComfyPaws: @FangShuiCanines no caps or braces if your dog is going to be shown #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   @LorieAHuston Braces - Kind of the like the Poop Chute covers someone designed for dogs #REALLY? #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   @LorieAHuston :) I had braces, so can't imagine dogs tolerating them! Or us cleaning them! Yes, over the top! #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   @LorieAHuston I definitely think braces are over the top. Can ne1 make a case for them? #barkoutloud

fearfuldogs:   I have never been able 2 get myself 2 brush my dogs' teeth consistently. There I admitted it. #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @turtlelady81 not me LOL #barkoutloud

DaisyWunderDog:   Not alone. RT @fearfuldogs: I have never been able 2 get myself 2 brush my dogs teeth consistently. There I admitted it. #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @fanshuicanines only if a terribly misaligned bite, which can cause many other issues. Should not be bred though, #barkoutloud

ComfyPaws:   @fearfuldogs I admitted it earlier ... do we need therapy or something? #barkoutloud

jsk9:   @fearfuldogs I have the same syndrome. And much guilt. Am yet making another pledge to be more consistent w/brushing #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @fearfuldogs I found it helped to make it part of our long walk every day. Get back home, brush teeth. Then i don't forget. #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   Brushing costs about $8 per year. Professional ceaning $100-$500. And I'm cheap! ;) #barkoutloud

dancingdogblog:   @Keeping_Awake thanks - I have a product from the Benedent corp..I'm sure none of these are going to be big hits:) #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   @LorieAHuston So what can be done about teeth that are "bad" because of genetics? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   LOL You guys are definitely not alone. RT @ComfyPaws: @fearfuldogs I admitted it earlier..do we need therapy or something? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @FangShuiCanines Constant, persistent home care is necessary as well as regular veterinary dental care. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @FangShuiCanines But in some cases, the teeth may continue to deteriorate regardless. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @FangShuiCanines In those cases, extraction of most or even all of the teeth may be necessary #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @FangShuiCanines The main goal is to keep the dog free of pain. You & your vet will need 2 decide whether the teeth are salvageable #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @FangShuiCanines If salvageable, can continue care but takes huge commitment. #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @FangShuiCanines If not salvageable or unable to commit to home care, extraction is best. #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   So I find brushing to be one of the best investments you can make in your dog's health, financially and healthwise. 2min/day/dog! #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines:   Yes, my dog Luna. Early extractions. RT @LorieAHuston:    @FangShuiCanines In those cases, extraction of most teeth may be necessary #barkoutloud

Keeping_Awake:   @LorieAHuston Advice on beginning a brushing program? Think many get stuck here. #barkoutloud

FangShuiCanines: Yes, found out :( RT @LorieAHuston:    @FangShuiCanines If not salvageable or unable to commit to home care, extraction is best. #barkoutloud

phxdogblogger:   This is the "mouthwash" our vet recommended to help fight plaque. Small dogs are especially prone, apparently. http://bit.ly/brPS2O #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @Keeping_Awake Yes, beginning a brushing program can be difficult. There's a video I'll look up and post after that has suggestions #barkoutloud

turtlelady81:   Well, how about that? No tweetchat tonight and we managed. It's time to wrap up! #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   Thank you all for coming. I hope you got some valuable info tonight. #barkoutloud

dancingdogblog:   @LorieAHuston:    What do you think of these gel teeth cleaners new to the market? Is that just simple cosmetics? #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   @dancingdogblog I'm not too impressed with them personally but they're better than nothing if you can't brush #barkoutloud

LorieAHuston:   This link http://ow.ly/1GAdK has a video about how to DS/CC dogs to tooth brushing and start a tooth brushing routine. Also provides more info about dental disease #barkoutloud